Chabad of Hewlett’s Jewish Women’s Circle held a challah baking workshop and discussed the important role women play in maintaining Jewish traditions.

More than 60 women and girls gathered together for a challah baking workshop held by the Jewish Women's Circle at Chabad of Hewlett at the home of Dr. Alan & Anne Roffe in Hewlett Bay Park on April 24.

Everyone learned how to make delicious homemade challah, a special Jewish braided bread eaten on Sabbath and holidays. “I was so excited,” said Inna Kern who came with her 6-year-old daughter, Anna. “There was truly something so beautiful to knead the dough, it felt really warm and motherly. I want my girls to have that same feeling.”

The women and young ladies had a great time while they learned different techniques of kneading, the meaning of the traditional challah bread that Jewish women have been making for hundreds of years, and about the special mitzvah reserved for women known as “Hafrashat Challah” (separating challah).

As the dough was set aside to rise, the women discussed the critical role of women in the Jewish tradition. "It was so inspiring to see how women from all different walks of life joined together in unity" said Rivkie Tenenboim, co-director of Chabad of Hewlett. "It was a great accomplishment in our mission to bring together our community with inspiration, fun, laughter, and learning." The women's circle plans on having such event and others in the future.

The Women's Circle at Chabad of Hewlett provides an opportunity for women of all ages to meet new friends, and learn in an informal and fun setting. The group meets weekly on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. at Chabad of Hewlett at 31 Franklin Ave.

All are welcome regardless of affiliation or background. For more information please contact Rivkie Tenenboim at Rivkie@jewishhewlett.com, (516) 295-3433 or www.jewishhewlett.com